Ok, I have read a little here and there - and I am wanting a final bit of feedback. I want a good ride, a wheel that does not look to small, not so worried about period tire. I have stock steel wheels and hub caps.

Looking at 205/75/24 or 195/70/14 (harder to find 195/75 I think)

Thanks for the input.

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1969
Model 220 gasoline
Chassis: W115.010

Just found this post in the Tech section - did not think to look there, sorry.

See below:

I have been fielding a lot of questions about models of our beloved Mercedes Benz family so, here is the real skinny on tire fitment for the W107, W115, W116, and W123 and all of the other early models which came from the motherland with 14" wheels.

All of the cars outfitted with 14" wheels run a tire that isw approximately 25.5" in diameter and wheel which were either 14x6.0" or 14x6.5". They were also severely under-tired just as most other vintage vehicles.

Looking at current tire availability here's the sizes and diameters that are still available and will work in place of some of the discontinued sizes no longer found.

185-14 25.6
205/70-14 25.3
205/75-14 26.1
215/70-14 25.8

While the higher speed rated tires are no longer produced in these sizes you can find both "S" and "T" rated tires which are perfectly acceptable for all of the early Mercedes vehicles as newer technology found in todays tires is far superior to what was around in the 70s and 80s.
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Please, call me to place orders or for more info
use my name for on-line orders

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1969
Model 220 gasoline
Chassis: W115.010

Didn't the 114's come from the factory with 175R14 tires? I've had really good luck with Vredestein tires, and am currently running them on my '67 VW and my daughter's '91 Volvo 245. The best place to buy them in the US is Tires Unlimited (I have no connection).

Vredestein Tires - Sprint Classic

I have a 75' w115 and I found that 195/75/14 tires keep the speedo where it should be (at most off by 1mph at highway speed). So these are very similar to the 175R14 which are the factory tires.

the w115s typically had 6" wide steel rims (rather than the 6.5 bunt or 6.5 alloy steel w123 rims with the circular holes in them) so I don't know if the 205 / 215 tires will work without looking odd. I never tried.

195/70/14's the speedo will make the speedo off by about 2 mph or so at highway speeds (ex read 70 when you are doing 68). But I think they look nice since they are slightly lower profile. The smaller tire diameter also give you a bit more power (although slightly higher rpms) .

Also I personally think both the 195/75/14 and 195/70/14 look alot better in whitewalls. You may even be able to find a nice set at a used tire shop for $100 mounted if you don't want to drop $300 for a new set.

Yes, and that is what I have on my 1971 250C.

Today I visited a You-Pick-it salvage yard in Prescott AZ - WOW, huge place. Actually found two vintage mercedes, 250s - scored on two smooth rear lenses, Red on Red for $5 each, and found two 195/70/14 (wish they were 75s) that will get me on the road, will purchase two new tires and another two when funds allow. Two tires, the two lens, and a center console for $45!

Still pondering on the size tire I will buy, but the input from all is a help for sure.

Chris

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1969
Model 220 gasoline
Chassis: W115.010

I just purchased two New Goodyear Viva IIs from Walmart, $63 each, 65,000 mile warranty. I went with 195/70 R14s since I have two on the back - almost went for the 195/75s but I didn't. Save a couple bucks and it felt right. Besides, my front end already is too high as it is!

Christopher

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1969
Model 220 gasoline
Chassis: W115.010

Topher-
Could you elaborate on your comment that your front end is already too high? I have noticed that on my own 220D, but I am starting to think it may be the normal, intended appearance.

Not sure if you are familiar with Mercedes Motoring, but he restores AMAZING MB cars. And his w114/w115s all seem to sit a little lower in the back. I guess it may be the styling of the car. Anyway, here are some photos to compare your car to:
Mercedes Motoring - 1975 300D Diesel Sedan

Does your ride height seem similar?

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1968 220D, w115, /8, OM615, Automatic transmission.
My 1987 300TD wagon was sold and my 2003 W210 E320 wagon was totaled (sheds tear).

You really cannot go wrong with the 195/70 tires. They are one size bigger than from the factory but the same diameter. The 205/65 will work too but for the 115 it will make the car ride rough. I have them on the 85 300sd but it is a heavier car and they work ok on that.

I've never thought benzes were undertired for the street.

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

I believe my car has the incorrect springs on the front - it is way higher than the cars in the photo you reference. Right now I am trying to sort out what is "up" with mine. I am going to pull the springs and check markings, spring coil itself diameter, rubber shims etc. It rides very hard and the shocks seem to be what is holding it from standing even higher! Just not right. Rear looks OK and not drooping.

Chris

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1969
Model 220 gasoline
Chassis: W115.010

Shocks are not frozen?

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

The shocks move just fine, just pops right back up to the top when you push down on the corner of the car - those springs are just too much.

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1969
Model 220 gasoline
Chassis: W115.010